Former Michigan Coach Sues University Over Firing

Chris Partridge claims wrongful termination and damage to reputation amid NCAA investigation

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former University of Michigan linebackers coach Chris Partridge has filed a lawsuit against the university, its board of regents, and athletics director, alleging he was wrongfully terminated in 2023 during an NCAA investigation into allegations of in-person scouting and sign-stealing by a former university staffer.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex legal and reputational issues that can arise when a coach is terminated during an NCAA investigation, even if the coach is later found to be largely cleared of wrongdoing. The lawsuit raises questions about due process, transparency, and the lasting impact on a coach's career.

The details

Partridge's lawsuit argues his "termination was wholly unjustified and without legitimate cause," claiming the university violated his 14th Amendment rights. He alleges the school spread "false and damaging information" about his conduct, tarnishing his reputation. Partridge was fired shortly before Michigan won the national championship, with the university citing his communication with a player about getting an attorney during the investigation.

  • Partridge was fired from Michigan in November 2023 as the NCAA investigated allegations of in-person scouting and sign-stealing.
  • In 2025, the NCAA's Committee on Infractions determined that a former Michigan staffer had orchestrated the scouting scheme for years.
  • Partridge went on to serve as outside linebackers coach for the Seattle Seahawks, helping them win the Super Bowl last month.

The players

Chris Partridge

Former linebackers coach at the University of Michigan who is suing the university over his 2023 firing.

University of Michigan

The public research university that fired Partridge during an NCAA investigation into allegations of in-person scouting and sign-stealing.

Connor Stalions

Former University of Michigan staffer who the NCAA found had orchestrated a scouting scheme for years.

Jim Harbaugh

Michigan's head coach at the time, who served a suspension related to the sign-stealing allegations just after Partridge was fired.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The University of Michigan unjustly terminated Partridge's employment and spread false and damaging information regarding his professional conduct, tarnishing Partridge's hard-earned reputation and inflicting irreparable harm on to his career and personal well-being.”

— Chris Partridge (Lawsuit)

“Partridge was a scapegoat who was wrongly fired simply because he told a player he had the right to have counsel.”

— Chris Partridge (Lawsuit)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to allow the lawsuit to proceed.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges coaches can face when caught up in NCAA investigations, even if they are later cleared, and the importance of due process and reputation protection for athletic department employees.